The radial artery: Results and technical considerations.

BACKGROUND: The radial artery (RA) is a frequently used conduit for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). We review the results of the use of the RA in CABG patients and discuss the unique technical considerations when using this conduit.

METHODS: A literature search was performed in PubMed through December 2017 on the comparative efficacy of the RA to other conduits and technical considerations for the use of the RA in CABG surgery.

RESULTS: When compared to the saphenous vein graft, the RA proved to be superior in graft patency in multiple randomized clinical trials. The RA was associated with better clinical outcomes in observational studies. The debate over the second best arterial conduit remains unresolved between the RA and the right internal thoracic artery. Preoperative evaluation of the patient's coronary anatomy and the quality of the RA is imperative to achieve the best clinical outcome with RA grafting.

CONCLUSION: With careful preoperative planning and attention to technical details, the RA is an excellent choice as the second conduit for CABG surgery.